Novak Djokovic must be more humble, says Roy Emerson

Twelve-time Grand Slam winner hits out at the world No1 for being too theatrical on court

Djokovic added the 2011 US Open title to his collection in August PA Photos

Tennis legend Roy Emerson has called on world No1 Novak Djokovic to show more “humility” on court, urging the Serb to behave more like Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal.

The 74-year-old, a 12-time Major winner, believes Djokovic’s demeanour during matches threatens to undermine his success and has told him to challenge his rivals in terms of modesty – and not just titles.

â€œI would like to see him show a bit more humility like Nadal and Federer,â€ Emerson said. â€œThere is too much of this chest thumping and roaring when he wins.

â€œI would like to see him emulate the pair when it comes to humility as well as Grand Slam wins.â€

Djokovic now holds the Australian Open, Wimbledon and US Open titles after enjoying a stunning run of form in 2011 – and Emerson paid tribute to the 24-year-oldâ€™s achievements during a season in which he has only lost two matches.

â€œNovak has really got his game together this year,â€ continued Emerson, who won the Australian Open singles title six times during an illustrious career. â€œHe is playing at a very high standard and his game shapes up well to Nadal.

â€œHe doesnâ€™t have the same difficulty as Federer has with Nadalâ€™s forehand as he is well able to take a high backhand with his strong double-handed shots.

â€œEvery time he is tested this year he seems well up to the task and he obviously got a tremendous boost from winning the Davis Cup last year.â€

Emerson was the fourth player to complete a ‘career slam’ and he has tipped Djokovic to soon join the illustrious list, with Roland Garros the only title the Serb now needs to complete his set.

â€œBecause he is young and has been so consistent this year Djokovic will always be a possible Grand Slam winner as he can play well on all surfaces,â€ he added.

Visit MG Words – home of Mike Geraghty, Irish author of tennis and children’s books for all ages.